8 Things to Know About Molly

Molly is a drug that is often misunderstood by both users and the general public. It’s a drug that is commonplace in the club scene, and it’s marketed as being pure MDMA. Unlike ecstasy where the MDMA is cut with other drugs, users insist that molly is pure, and therefore, safe. Their argument comes from the fact that MDMA has been studied in cognitive therapy and psychology and has been found to have therapeutic effects, such as by inducing euphoria and diminished anxiety. Additionally, some experts believe that MDMA can be helpful in treating post-traumatic stress disorder, terminal cancer and even addiction.

Although there may be some benefits to the use of MDMA for medical purposes, it’s still criminalized in most countries. This is due to the fact that MDMA is still more risky than it is beneficial. MDMA has many side effects, including psychological and physiological acute effects even after the drug has worn off. It’s understandable, though, that people can confuse the risks and benefits to MDMA.

With molly, what we have on our hands is more than just MDMA. The MDMA is cut with other chemicals, sometimes even bath salts, making these tiny pills potentially deadly.

Here are 8 things that everyone should know about molly. It’s time to separate fact from fiction.

1. What is molly – really?

The answer is not MDMA. The most common chemicals found in molly include methylone, MDPV, 4-MEC, 4-MMC, pentedrone and MePP. The DEA in New York City admitted that only 13 percent of the molly seized over the last four years in the state actually contained MDMA. Even then, it was mixed with other drugs.

2. How does molly affect the body?

The chemicals in molly are synthetically created to replicate the effects of MDMA, which is why users feel euphoric highs. They experience a rapid heartbeat, sweating and feelings of intimacy. Since molly contains nervous system stimulants, high blood pressure and blood vessel constriction also occurs.

Not all effects are positive, though. Some users will suffer from panic attacks, psychosis or seizures. When the chemicals wear off, depression can form. In some cases, the mix of chemicals, dehydration or over-hydration can lead to death.

3. Who is most likely to be using molly?

Molly is most common in the 12-17 age group. It’s also popular among rave and electronic music dance fans. Because of its pure image, molly is a drug that is marketed to first-time drug users as well. Not only does molly create dependency, but also it paves the way for experimentation with other drugs. No one is exempt from the war on drugs.

4. What does molly look like?

For parents and family members, knowing what the drug molly looks like is important. If you guessed a pill form, you are right – in some cases at least. But molly is also found in capsules, powder, injectable forms and in liquid that is applied to blotting paper.

5. What makes molly so dangerous?

While MDMA certainly has its risks, it’s not the MDMA that we’re necessarily focused on. The trouble is that molly is cut with so many synthetic chemicals, users never really know what they are taking. These synthetic drugs have various effects on the body, especially when mixed together or when combined with alcohol. Each batch of molly is different, and the compounds can have deadly effects on a person.

6. Where do the chemicals come from?

The majority of the chemicals that are used in synthetic drugs come from China. Illegal street chemists purchase these drugs and cut them with other chemical compounds. They then place the mixture in a capsule or sell it as a powder. Street chemists do not care about making drugs safe. They only care about making money. That’s why there are no standards when it comes to illegal substances, and molly is no exception.

7. Is molly a threat in the U.S.?

Yes. Molly is the fastest-emerging drug problem in the synthetic market in the U.S., and even other parts of the world are seeing widespread issues. In Perth, Australia, over 20 people were hospitalized on New Year’s Eve after taking ecstasy pills. CNN also reports that the DEA seized $95 million from drug traffickers during a bust in two days.

8. What should I do if someone I know is using molly?

Get help immediately. If you notice that someone close to you has had a change in personality and shows signs of jaw clenching, sweating, psychosis or bizarre behavior, talk to a treatment center like The River Source. Our treatment centers offer professional support and advice, and we will let you know if our centers are the right fit for your loved one. In most cases, same-day arrangements can be made.

Bottom line: Molly is nothing to gamble with. It’s not pure, it’s not safe and it’s certainly not worth risking your life over.